Growing Coffee Culture in Nepal
Kathmandu, Nepal — While tea has long been the drink of choice in Nepal, a notable shift is happening in the country’s beverage landscape. Traditionally, greetings in Nepal often revolve around tea, with questions like, “Have you had your tea?” But now, coffee is making a significant mark.
Nepal is famous for its tea production, yet there’s a burgeoning interest in coffee, evident from the many new cafes cropping up in cities and towns.
A New Brew Takes Hold
Among the pioneers of this coffee revolution is Gagan Pradhan, who started Himalayan Java as a humble cafe in Kathmandu. Today, it has blossomed into a successful chain with 84 outlets across the nation. Pradhan estimates there are approximately 7,000 cafes in Nepal, although globally recognized brands like Starbucks have yet to establish a presence here.
Pradhan shares, “There are lots of tea shops throughout the nation, but many have an old-fashioned setup. We focus on creating a modern atmosphere—considering the lighting, furniture, and location.”
Unlike the typical tea offerings of black or milk tea, coffee menus are extensive, featuring a range of both hot and cold beverages. Pradhan explains that opening a cafe is appealing because of the low initial investment and the willingness of customers to pay more for coffee.
Coffee: A Shift in Lifestyle
Though coffee can be pricey—around $2 per cup, comparable to a meal at a local eatery—cafes are popular gathering spots. Office workers and students often seek these lively spaces for breaks and study sessions.
As consumer interest grows, so does the local coffee production industry. Most of the coffee enjoyed in Nepal comes from imports, but coffee plantations are beginning to emerge in the tea-producing regions. The National Tea and Coffee Development Board reports around 400 tons of coffee were produced in the fiscal year 2021-22, a small figure compared to the 26,000 tons of tea produced, but it signals potential for future growth.
With more young and older individuals embracing coffee, experts like Pradhan are optimistic about the trend continuing. “Both young and old people in Nepal just love coffee, and the number of coffee drinkers is growing every day,” he said.
In a nation where tea has reigned supreme for generations, the rise of coffee as a popular choice represents a fresh lifestyle shift—one that speaks to changing tastes and a desire for new experiences. As this trend develops, it may reshape the cultural fabric of Nepal, promoting a more diverse beverage culture.
